Shearer has faith in Toon

Newcastle great Alan Shearer insists his old club will not be relegated from the Barclays Premier League and has backed manager Kevin Keegan to turn things around.

PUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: 11:46, Sun, Mar 16, 2008

Alan Shearer

The Magpies have not won a league match since December 15 and are only three points above the relegation zone, and Keegan's much-vaunted arrival in January for a second term in charge has not brought the expected results.

"I still believe and maintain they won't go down," said the Magpies' record goalscorer. "They need a result on Monday against Birmingham, because it has been a long time since they won."

He added: "They have three crucial home games against (fellow relegation candidates) Fulham, Reading and Sunderland - and we will know more after those.

"It [speculation about Keegan's future] is nonsense, but no one can stop that until they actually go out and get results.

"Winning matches changes everything; it stops people being negative about the club and the players.

"He [Keegan] knew what he was going into, and I am convinced - and I'm sure he is - that they will turn it around."

Shearer believes Keegan's position is secure.

"I don't see any reason how he can be in danger," he added. "The owner and chairman have put their faith in Kevin.

"He is - and was - the right choice and he will take the club forward providing the owner gives him the funds. There is no point in appointing him if they are not prepared to do that. I just give him my full backing and hope he will get it right."